Following the completion of his initial three-match ban for being sent off against Manchester United, Southampton captain Jack Stephens has received further punishment.
Russell Martin might have hoped that Stephens’ return after the ban would alleviate his problems, but now he faces an additional two-match suspension and a £50,000 fine due to incidents that occurred during the sending-off.
According to the Daily Echo, referee Stuart Atwell and fourth official Gavin Ward submitted a detailed report to the FA regarding the situation, resulting in Stephens missing the upcoming matches against Arsenal and Leicester City.
The FA stated that Stephens acknowledged using abusive and insulting language towards both the referee and the fourth official around the 79th minute of the match.
Stephens requested a personal hearing to present his case and express his apology, admitting to his inappropriate comments. He said, “I fully recognize that my words were completely unacceptable and not in line with the expected conduct. I’m very embarrassed by my actions and sincerely apologize for them. I understand the importance of respecting a referee’s decision, but in the heat of the moment, I said things I typically wouldn’t.”
The FA’s report noted that the commission initially suggested a four-match ban, which was reduced in part due to Stephens’ previously clean record.
This news is likely to elicit mixed reactions from the Southampton fanbase. Some may see this as a benefit to the team rather than a setback. Despite feeling that Martin has played Stephens when he shouldn’t have been in the team, I can’t take any pleasure in seeing him receive another suspension.
GET MORE RELATED CONTENT ON LIFESTYLEROOM.NET
Leave a Reply